Google Maps adds Tube service update feature ahead of London 2012

Google has added a new real-time London Underground update feature to its Maps service ahead of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Google Maps now offers live London Underground updates (Picture: Reuters)

The technology giant made the announcement on Tuesday, just days after it unveiled an enhanced live traffic-data feature to the same web-mapping service.

Commuters will be able to access up-to-the-second live data information across the London Underground network about possible disruptions and potential delays.

It is a similar service currently offered by regulators Transport for London and is available both online and for smartphone users.

Maintenance workers repair Tube lines (Picture: Reuters)

Official Google blogger Thijs van As said: ‘Ahead of a busy summer in London, we are bringing real time service alerts for the London Underground to Google Maps.

‘Weâll let you know of any disruptions on the Underground that are happening at the time you need them most. To see these alerts, click on a station in a timetable or in the public transport directions results.’

Google’s new Maps service (Picture: Google)

Google has also updated its maps service to provide more accurate information for road users.

A spokesman said: ‘If the roads you’re travelling do not yet show the current traffic information, don’t despair.

‘You can help your fellow drivers and improve traffic data about road conditions and speeds by turning on the My Location feature on Google Maps for Android.’